There is a myriad of things to consider when building a nursery, and sustainability is right up there with security. This guide will explore how sustainability and design intermingle. It will further explain how one can employ the use of reclaimed materials and other eco-friendly measures when building a nursery.
Here is an example of how a sustainable design (which is child friendly) might look like:
What is sustainable design?
The ultimate goal of a sustainable planet is to make sure that each generation has a fair chance of survival and thriving in it. A sustainable design takes that into consideration by creating an environment that is conscious of its impact in the world and the people who will inherit it – our children.
“This part of the blog was written by a Digital Relations Consultant using the resources of 6XDMEDIA – UK media company.”
A sustainably designed building takes the following into account:
- Energy consumption. Can renewable energy providers be used? Is there a way to incorporate renewable energy generators such as rooftop solar panels, a wind turbine, air source heat pumps or hydroelectricity into the design?
- Materials and products. Can materials and products which have less impact on the environment be used? For example, is there a way to give reclaimed materials a second life?
- Water conservation. Is there a way less water can be used, both throughout the building process and once the property is inhabited?
- Waste. Can the amount of waste produced during the building process be minimised? Is any of the waste able to be reused or recycled, rather than sent to landfill?
Reducing waste throughout the process doesn’t just mean using fewer materials. It also refers to eliminating any unnecessary use of land, time and money.
Building a nursery with reclaimed materials
Reclaimed materials are any materials that have been used before. Examples of reclaimed materials include salvaged floorboards, doors, windows, bricks, beams, cabinets, decoration and shipping pallets. There are numerous ways to incorporate them into a house design.
Flooring
Some flooring can be re-laid in the new building, while some might not be in good enough condition to be walked over, but could be used for another purpose.
Doors
While exterior doors are best made new to ensure the highest energy efficiency, you can reuse old interior doors when building a property. Some will look great as they are, and some will need sandblasting to remove old paint. Choose your reclaimed interior doors before you create openings for them, as they can come in different sizes.
Windows
Old windows can be used as a feature inside a home, or to build a greenhouse outside. They’re not normally very energy efficient, so it’s best to install new, double or triple glazed windows in the exterior walls.
Bricks
Reclaimed bricks are relatively easy to get hold of, sites like eBay, Craigslist and Freecycle are all good places to start. The bricks must be cleaned before they can be used. Be discerning when choosing your reclaimed materials. If in good condition, they can last for years and save a lot of resources. If not, they’ll only create more waste and more bills further down the line.
You can browse the internet for further sustainable house design ideas, picking the elements that suit you and your project.
The future of sustainable design
Demand for sustainable design is increasing. People want secure, accessible shelter that won’t be detrimental to the health of their children, whilst protecting their surrounding environment. Therefore, it makes sense to hold sustainability in high regards when building a nursery or home, if you haven’t already. It decreases your costs and improve the shelter’s longevity, hence ensuring that generations and generations get to inherit the place even when you are long gone.
Author: Clarke Simmons
